Many people think sign language is universal, one language that deaf people everywhere can use to communicate with each other. But that’s not true. That’s why every September 23rd the International Day of Sign Languages brings attention to over 300 different sign languages used by approximately 72 million deaf individuals worldwide.
American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) are completely different languages. A deaf person from New York and a deaf person from London would have some issues understanding each other through signing.
The History Behind September 23rd
The United Nations proclaimed September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages in 2017, commemorating the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf on that date in 1951. The date itself tells a story about decades of advocacy and progress in recognizing the rights of deaf communities around the world.
Every year since then, this day celebrates sign languages worldwide and raises awareness about the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of deaf people. The 2026 theme is particularly powerful: “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights.”
Over 37 million adults and more than 1 million children in the United States alone have some degree of hearing loss. That’s a lot of people who might rely on sign language to communicate, to learn, to connect with others, to access justice.
Sign Languages Are Real Languages (Not Just Hand Gestures)
One of the biggest misconceptions out there is that sign language is just a bunch of hand gestures strung together, or that it’s somehow a simplified version of spoken language.
When in reality sign languages are complete linguistic systems with their own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary that evolved naturally within deaf communities over generations. They’re as rich and complex as any spoken language. You can express everything from everyday conversation to abstract philosophy, humor, poetry, even sarcasm (and if you’ve ever seen someone sign sarcastically, you know it’s an art form).
The Diversity of Sign Languages
In fact, there are over 300 different sign languages in use around the world. Despite these variations, sign languages share some common features: space is commonly used to convey information about distance and direction. Additionally, sign languages typically have their own grammar and syntax, which can be quite different from spoken languages.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Sign languages vary by country and even by region within countries
- Mexican Sign Language (LSM) is completely different from ASL
- In Canada, Langue des Signes Québécoise (LSQ) is distinct from ASL, even though they’re geographically close
- International Sign Language (IS) is a pidgin form used in international settings, distinct from national sign languages like ASL
The Human Side of Sign Languages
Sometimes entire communities have embraced sign language. Famous examples include Martha’s Vineyard in the USA, where so many residents were deaf that hearing people learned sign language too, creating a truly inclusive community. What if more communities followed that example?
Research even shows that babies can communicate through sign language earlier than they can speak vocally. Sign language enables infants to express their needs and thoughts before their vocal cords are fully developed enough for speech.
Moving Forward
As we celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages on September 23rd, let’s recognize that equal access to justice, healthcare, education, and opportunity means ensuring deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals have access to qualified interpreters who truly understand their language.
Not just someone who knows a few signs. Not a family member who “kind of knows” sign language. Professional interpreters who respect the linguistic complexity and cultural significance of sign languages.
Need help finding a qualified ASL interpreter for your legal proceedings or professional needs? At Legal Interpreters LLC, we connect you with certified professionals who ensure clear, accurate, and culturally informed communication. Contact us today to learn more about our sign language interpretation services.
Because everyone deserves to be heard, whether they use their voice or their hands to speak.
Written by Valentina Rodriguez